[23] All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty. [24] The wealth of the wise is their crown, but the folly of fools yields folly. [25] A truthful witness saves lives, but a false witness is deceitful. [26] Whoever fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for their children it will be a refuge. [27] The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death. [28] A large population is a king’s glory, but without subjects a prince is ruined. [29] Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly. [30] A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. [31] Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God. [32] When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down, but even in death the righteous seek refuge in God. [33] Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning and even among fools she lets herself be known. [34] Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people. [35] A king delights in a wise servant, but a shameful servant arouses his fury.
